Colorado Democrats enter abortion-rights debate

In this Jan. 22, 2014 photo, Colorado Democratic state senator Mary Hodge does some reading at her desk inside the chambers of the Colorado State Senate, at the Capitol, in Denver. Sen. Hodge has proposed a bill requiring better informing landowners and buyers about their property rights, which often doesn't include mineral rights below the surface. (AP Photo/Brennan Linsley)(Photo: Brennan Linsley, AP)

DENVER – A symbolic election-year fight over abortion rights is headed to the Colorado Senate.

A bill up for debate Tuesday is described as a guarantee that state or local policies won't interfere with reproductive decisions such as abortion and contraception. Democratic sponsors say the measure is needed to protect women's rights.

The bill would also draw election-year contrasts on a divisive measure where Democrats think the public is on their side. It's a symbolic measure because future lawmakers could change it.

Religious conservatives who oppose abortion rights are outraged. Denver Catholic Archbishop Samuel Aquila (ah-KWIHL'-ah) plans to pray on the steps of the Capitol Tuesday in protest.

Catholics say they are especially offended that the measure is being debated during Holy Week.

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Online:

Senate Bill 175: http://bit.ly/1eruYvn

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